Many of the very best distance runners in the U.S., and in many cases the world, share a common thread: they have been coached by Jerry Schumacher on the Bowerman Track Club. The elite of the elite American distance training group has churned out droves of international superstars over the years under the watchful eye of Schumacher, who is widely regarded as one of the best distance coaches in the world.

Courtney Frerichs' first major running performance was a 5:32 mile. It's a mark that, in some states, would put a fair share of female athletes on the podium of their respective high school state championship meets.  

It might be February, but cross country is still in season! The USATF XC Championships go down this Saturday in Tallahassee, Florida, with 10K races for both men and women. There's no world cross to qualify for this year, so the event is simply a fun way to kick off the track and road racing season for this slew of diverse athletes — with, of course, a national title on the line.